Leading a Hybrid Team: Four Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your People, Wherever They Are

Over the past two years or so, we've seen dramatic changes in the way we work. But now, as we settle into a "new normal", it's clear that hybrid working is here to stay.

For many, this more flexible way of working is a welcome change. Last year, research published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that 85% of employees who worked from home wanted a hybrid approach to working in the future. "It offers a level of flexibility and, if implemented well, strikes a very good balance between autonomy and collaboration," says Lee Chambers, corporate psychologist and founder of Essentialise Workplace Wellbeing.

< p class="dcr-h3dclz ">Resisting this new way of working is futile, says Dave Prezzano, Managing Director of HP UK and Ireland. "Rather than trying to push staff away from the office, business leaders would be better off equipping and empowering people to perform at their best, wherever they are."

For managers, however, leading a hybrid team can create unique challenges. How can you keep your team connected when you're not all under one roof? Here are four expert tips on how to get the most out of hybrid working.

1 Add some structureWhile the appeal of hybrid working is its flexibility, creating of a structure within it that helps, says Chambers. "By setting clear expectations, it stops that 'them and us' culture that can be really hard to manage."

If that's right for your business, he says, it can help to share work schedules within the team, so people know who is working when and from where. "It helps determine how quickly a response can be given and what might be the best way to contact someone."

Along with this, Chambers also recommends managers plan for rapid response – one-on-one calls or emails to get in touch with remote staff so that they feel seen, cared for and have the opportunity to discuss any issues they may not have feel comfortable lifting in a group meeting. "For those at a distance, be sure to organize check-ins and try to do it informally," he says.